Pune is undoubtedly a beautiful place to visit. With ambient weather, gastronomic food (especially street food), and ample places to visit for its nightlife, Pune is definitely a hub for youngsters. And if you’re in the city, don’t miss out on these places near Pune to make the most of your visit (or stay)! By Anushka Goel
Places to visit near Pune
Pawna Lake
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Pawna Lake is located about an hour and a half from Pune, and makes for a great spot for a camping trip. Spend some time by the lake, pitch your tents, sing and dance around the bonfire, or simply visit the place during the day for a picnic – either way, you’ll only be mesmerised by the beauty the place has!
Best time to visit: January to May and October to December, to experience the best of cool breezes and the weather
Top attraction
How to reach: Pawna Lake is 53 kilometres from Pune, and can be reached via road
Who you should visit with: Adventure-loving friends or family members
Average cost of travel: INR 2,000 per person, approx
Where to stay: Opt for one of the many campsites in case you plan to spend the night
Lonavala
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Among the most popular places to visit near Pune and Mumbai is Lonavala. The hill station has some of the most scenic views of the Western Ghats, and makes for the ideal weekend trip from both the cities.
Best time to visit: June to September
Top attraction: Lonavala Lake and several forts around the hill station
How to reach: Lonavala is 67 kilometres from Pune and can be reached via train or road
Who you should visit with: Friends, family, or spend a romantic weekend with your partner here
Average cost of travel: INR 1o,000 (approx per person) for one night and two days
Food to eat: Lonavala’s fudge is among the most popular things to eat, so be sure to sample some
Book your stay at the Radisson Resort and Spa Lonavala here
Shaniwar Wada
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A popular fortification in the city, Shaniwar Wada is a great place to visit in Pune. About a kilometre in the city, the fort was constructed in 1732. It was the great seat of the Peshwas of the Maratha Empire until 1818. The stunning fort is a beautiful place to visit.
Best time to visit: October to February
How to reach: Reach Pune by air or train, and then book a cab or any public transport to Shaniwar Wada
Who you should visit with: A family trip to Shaniwar Wada is always a good idea
Average cost of travel: Tickets to the fort cost INR 5
Things to do: See the light and sound show in the evening for INR 25
Aga Khan Palace
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Built by Sultan Mahomed Shah, Aga Khan III, the palace has an interesting history. The place was linked closely to the freedom struggle and served as the prison for Mahatma Gandhi and his wife, Kasturba, secretary Mahadev Desai as well as freedom fighter Sarojini Naidu. The place has vast lawns and stunning architecture.
Best time to visit: October to March
How to reach: Reach Pune via air or train, and book a cab or auto to the Palace, which is about 10 kilometres from the city.
Who you should visit with: Friends and family
Average cost of travel: Entry tickets cost INR 5 per person
Sinhagad Fort
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Sinhagad is said to have been built around 2,000 years ago. The fort has witnessed several battles, the most prominent one being the Battle of Sinhagad. The fort is situated in the Sahyadri range of the Western Ghats, and makes for a beautiful weekend getaway from the bustling city of Pune.
Best time to visit: During the monsoons or winter
Top attraction: The fort itself
How to reach: The distance between Pune and Sinhagad is about 49 kilometres and is covered by road
Who you should visit with: Adventure junkie friends
Average cost of travel: Entry fee is INR 20, and other expenses depend on you
Things to do: Explore the fort, capture the scenic views and visit nearby sites
Food to eat: Sample snacks and dishes from local stalls
Lavasa
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Lavasa is another beautiful destination that makes it to the top on the list of places to visit near Pune. Enjoy water sports, stunning views or simply unwind amid nature at this stunning destination and make the best of your weekends.
Best time to visit: September to March
How to reach: Nearest airport is Pune and the nearest railway station is Lonavala. From here, book a cab to reach the destination
Who you should visit with: Friends, family or alone for a solo stay
Average cost of travel: INR 10,000 (approx)
Book your stay at the Lavasa Lake Palace here
Khandala
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One of the twin hill stations of Lonavala-Khandala, the destination is quite close to Pune and Mumbai, and makes for a relaxing weekend getaway. Enjoy the misty clouds, ambient weather and the most beautiful views as you sit and unwind at your hotel, or go exploring the many waterfalls and forts around.
Best time to visit: June to September
Top attractions: Kune Falls, Bedse Caves
How to reach: From Mumbai or Pune, board a train that takes you to Khandala, or coved the distance of 72 km by road
Who you should visit with: Friends, family or your partner
Average cost of travel: INR 10,000 (per person) approx
Book your stay at the StayVista Shiraz Villa here
Igatpuri
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Best known for the Vipassana International Academy, Igatpuri is also a great destination for those looking for some adventure. The destination, among the many places to visit near Pune, has several caves and waterfalls around for you to unwind in the lap of nature.
Best time to visit: December to February
Top attraction: Tringalwadi Fort, Kalubai Peak
How to reach: Via train, which stop at the Igatpuri station, or by road (Igatpuri is 230 km from Pune)
Who you should visit with: Alone or with friends
Average cost of travel: INR 10,000 (approx)
Things to do: Meditation, adventure activities
Where to stay: There are several hotels and homestays you can opt for
Kolad
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If you love water sports, Kolad is the place to be. The place has whitewater rafting, beautiful valley views and a whole lot of fun, for you to spend a weekend away from the city life!
Best time to visit: June to October, to be able to enjoy rafting
How to reach: By road – the destination is 114 km from Pune
Who you should visit with: Adventure junkie friends
Average cost of travel: INR 14,000 (approx)
Things to do: Whitewater rafting, nature trails
Where to stay: Choose from one of the many hotels and homestays here
Mahabaleshwar
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The beautiful hill station is home to several attractions. These include the Venna Lake, Pratapgarh Fort and several waterfalls. The place is a great winter weekend getaway from Mumbai and Pune, and its scenic beauty is sure to draw you in!
Best time to visit: December to February
Top attractions: Pratapgarh Fort, Venna Lake, Lingmala Falls
How to reach: By road is the best option, and the distance of 120 kilometres will take about 3.5 hours to cover
Who you should visit with: Friends or with family for a weekend getaway
Average cost of travel: Between INR 5,000-INR 25,000 (approx)
Things to do: Explore the forts, waterfalls, lakes and more
Food to eat: Locally grown strawberries, fresh berry ice creams and more
Book your stay at the Le Meridien Mahabaleshwar Resort and Spa here
Mumbai
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Yes, the city of dreams makes for one of the best places to visit near Pune! Mumbai has a lot of things for you to see and explore, and can be covered in a few days (or over a few weekends). Bollywood buffs can head to places such as Prithvi Cafe and the numerous studios, romantics can enjoy a date at Marine Drive or Bandstand. Be sure to visit Fort, and board a local train (or two). And if you’re up for some scares, these haunted places in Mumbai are a must-visit!
Best time to visit: September to February
Top attractions: Marine Drive, Haji Ali Dargah, Siddhivinayak Temple, Fort, and more
How to reach: You can either book a flight or a train to Mumbai, or travel the 150 km distance by road
Who you should visit with: Friends, family, your partner
Average cost of travel: INR 20,000 (approx)
Things to do: Explore the nightlife, sit by Marine Drive, visit the city’s fort, shop at Colaba Causeway, watch DDLJ at Maratha Mandir and more
Food to eat: Local delicacies such as vada pav, misal pav, Sardar Pav Bhaji, Bombay sandwiches
Where to stay: There are several hotels, hostels and homestays across budgets to choose from
Matheran
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Another destination for thrillseekers, Matheran is a great place to visit near Pune. It offers the best of nature, with view points, lakes, treks and a lot more that will make your weekend better!
Best time to visit: October to May
Top attractions: Charlotte Lake, Chanderi Caves and more
How to reach: Nearest railway station is Neral (20 km), or you can reach by road (distance is 123 km)
Who you should visit with: Friends
Average cost of travel: INR 12,000 (approx)
Things to do: Go on treks and hikes, spend evenings by the lakes
Panchgani
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Panchgani is definitely among the most popular hill stations for those seeking some peace. A great family destination, the place has several viewpoints, a cheese factory and a lot more for you to explore.
Best time to visit: October to March
How to reach: Board a taxi from Pune and cover a distance of 101 km
Who you should visit with: Family
Average cost of travel: INR 15,000 (approx)
Things to do: Soak in the scenic views, visit the cheese factory, go on nature walks and hikes
Book your stay at Casa Habitat here
Rajmachi
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Among the places to visit near Pune is Rajmachi. The place is known for the Rajmachi trek, which takes one to the two forts – Manaranjan and Shriwardhan – which are beautiful, rustic ruins that speak of India’s past. It makes for a great weekend adventure trip from Pune and Mumbai.
Best time to visit: Monsoon season (July to September)
Top attraction: The twin forts of Shriwardhan and Manaranjan
How to reach: Board a train till Lonavala or Karjat, and from either place, book a taxi to the trek’s start point
Who you should visit with: Friends, trekking groups
Average cost of travel: INR 5,000 (approx)
Things to do: Visit the twin forts and the Kondhane Caves
Alibaug
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Alibaug is undoubtedly among the best beach destinations to visit near Pune. The place, apart from the seas, also has several forts and other attractions that make it great for visits with family as well as friends.
Best time to visit: September to February
Top attraction: Beaches
How to reach: By road from Pune (145 km)
Who you should visit with: Friends or family
Average cost of travel: INR 10,000
Things to do: Relax by the beach, walk around forts
Book your stay at the Radisson Blu Resort & Spa Alibaug here
Ajanta Ellora Caves
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Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ellora Caves and the nearby Ajanta caves from Pune for a lesson in history and archaeology. Ellora is among the largest rock-cut Hindu, Jain and Buddhist Vihara temples cave complexes in the world and makes for a beautiful sight. Ajanta caves, located nearby, are another set of stunning caves that make for a must-visit in Maharashtra.
Best time to visit: October to February
Top attraction: The many caves here
How to reach: Reach Aurangabad via train or flight, and from there, board a bus or a cab to the caves
Who you should visit with: Family
Average cost of travel: INR 15,000 (approx)
Bhandardara
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Spend time amid nature at Bhandardara, a resort village near Igatpuri. The place, a great one to visit near Pune over the weekend, has several resorts, waterfalls and more to keep you engaged.
Best time to visit: October to February
How to reach: Nearest train station is Igatpuri; book a cab from here. Or else, you can travel the 162 km distance from Pune by road
Who you should visit with: Friends, family
Average cost of travel: INR 15,000 (approx)
Nashik
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Nashik is best known for its tour of the Sula Vineyards, but there are a lot of other activities that you can do here, too. Visit the Brahmagiri Hill, the city’s parks and a lot more for some adventure as well as much-needed peace and quiet.
Best time to visit: October to February
How to reach: Via road (211 kilometres)
Top attraction: Sula Vineyards
Who you should visit with: Friends
Average cost of travel: INR 15,000 (approx, depending on the places you visit)
Things to do: Explore the natural beauty, visit Sula Vineyards
Food to eat: Sample the locally made wines
Where to stay: There are several hotels and stays to choose from
Shirdi
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The temple town of Shirdi is an important pilgrimage site in Maharashtra, visited by lakhs of devotees every year. The place also makes for a great weekend visit from Pune!
Best time to visit: December to February
Top attraction: The Sai Baba temple
How to reach: Take a flight or train to Aurangabad and board a taxi from there
Who you should visit with: Family
Average cost of travel: INR 18,000 (approx)
Where to stay: There are several hotels to choose from
Lohagad Fort
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Among the many hill forts in Maharashtra is Lohagad. The place makes for a great trekking opportunity and offers some of the most stunning views of the Western Ghats.
Best time to visit: June to February
How to reach: Board a train to Malavli railway station, which is roughly six km from the fort
Who you should visit with: Friends
Average cost of travel: INR 5,000 approx
Murud Janjira
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Murud Janjira is a beautiful destination to visit near Pune. The fort, considered among the strongest marine forts in India, is located on an island off the shore of Murud. The place also has several beaches, a palace and more to explore.
Best time to visit: Winter months
Top attraction: Murud Janjira Fort
How to reach: Via road (168 kilometres)
Who you should visit with: Friends and family
Average cost of travel: INR 18,000 approx
Where to stay: There are many resorts and homestays to choose from
Malshej Ghat
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Malshej Ghat is another destination that attracts massive crowds from Pune, Mumbai and other nearby cities. The place offers many beautiful natural views, mist-covered hills, waterfalls, lakes and a lot more for you to celebrate the bounty of nature.
Best time to visit: August to February
How to reach: Board a train to Kalyan. From there, book a taxi for your journey onwards.
Who you should visit with: Family, friends
Average cost of travel: INR 15,000 (approx)
Where to stay: There are several hotels and budget stays available
Ratnagiri
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Among the best places to visit with family, Ratnagiri is a port town in Maharashtra. It offers several museums, beaches, palaces and forts that will keep you engaged over the weekend.
Best time to visit: Winter months
Top attraction: Beaches
How to reach: You can reach here via train, air or by road
Who you should visit with: Family
Average cost of travel: INR 12,000 (approx)
Tamhini Ghat
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Located in the Western Ghats is the quaint Tamhini Ghat. The place is perfect for nature-lovers, as it allows you to unwind amid scenic views and lush greenery. The place is also a great destination for treks.
Best time to visit: Monsoon and winters
Top attraction: The scenic views
How to reach: The place is about 46 km from Pune by road
Who you should visit with: Friends
Average cost of travel: INR 12,000 (approx)
Daman & Diu
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The union territory of Daman and Diu is a great destination for those who want to unwind by the beaches with a couple of beers in hand. The union territory has its own cultures and traditions, and a weekend here will not only enrich you but also allow you to get in touch with yourself.
Best time to visit: November to February
Top attractions: Beaches, forts
How to reach: By road (306 kilometres)
Who you should visit with: Friends
Average cost of travel: INR 14,000 (approx)
Things to do: Spend time at the beaches indulge in seafood
Where to stay: The place has many hotels and homestays
Hero and Featured Image: Courtesy of Sonika Agarwal/Unsplash
Related: These Road Trips From Pune Will Make For A Relaxing, Adventurous Getaway
Written By
Anushka Goel
Anushka has previously worked with publications such as the Times of India and Being Indian. A graduate from Xavier Institute of Communications, she specialises in entertainment, food and travel. She also likes to write about sustainability and beauty. When not working, you can catch her reading a book, tending to her plants, cooking or playing an instrument.
